What makes a photographer good?
Getting pictures in focus? Having proper exposure? Good colour balance? Accurate flash exposure?
It’s none of those things because cameras have auto-focus, auto-exposure, auto colour balance and auto flash exposure.
Producing technically perfect photos does not make a photographer good. So what’s left?
Good happens before the photography
It isn’t the picture taking that makes a photographer good. Rather it’s what happens before the picture taking.
A good photographer:
• Understands their tools. This is not about knowing how to use the tools but rather why to use them.
• Understands what the customer wants even when the customer isn’t quite sure.
• Can foresee potential problems and acts to prevent them from happening.
• Sees the picture, or at least has a plan, before picking up the camera.
There are no auto settings for any of those because they only come from experience.
Simply put, a good photographer is prepared.
How long does it take to be properly prepared for a photo assignment? Some photographers will say it can take a few hours. But a good photographer will tell you that it takes years.
